Kim Jong-cheol, the newly appointed chair of the Korea Media Communications Commission, responds to reporters’ questions as he arrives at the Government Complex Gwacheon in Gwacheon on December 19. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Dec. 19 (Korea Bizwire) — Kim Jong-cheol, the inaugural chair of the Korea Media Communications Commission (KMCC), vowed Friday to take stern measures against fake news and materials related to digital sex crimes.
“I will take firm measures against false and manipulated information, as well as malicious comments polluting the public sphere of democracy, while sternly responding to digital sexual exploitation materials,” Kim said in his inaugural address.
Kim was appointed as the head of the newly launched state media watchdog, which replaced the Korea Communications Commission while taking over some responsibilities from the Ministry of Science and ICT, including oversight of new media and subscription-based services.
Kim said the KMCC will play the role of a “promoter of a fair media order,” noting that restoration of constitutional spirits will help create an environment for freedom of speech.
“Technological advancement has brought us convenience, but it has also presented difficult challenges for our community, including the polarization of public opinions, proliferation of false and manipulated information, and the issue of unfair treatment for global and domestic platforms,” he said.
“The KMCC will boldly reform outdated regulatory frameworks that no longer fit the changed circumstances and promote the local industry to help Korea become a global media powerhouse,” he added.
Regarding the issue of introducing a ban on teenagers’ use of social media platforms, the media watchdog chief said he will take into consideration both the positive and negative aspects surrounding the issue.
Earlier this week, Kim said it is “absolutely necessary” to introduce such measures to protect underage users from harmful content online.
Kim previously served key roles in several government judiciary bodies of former President Moon Jae-in’s administration, including the Presidential Special Committee on National Constitution Advisory.
(Yonhap)
